The only certain way to tell whether a thyroid lump is cancerous is by examining the thyroid tissue obtained using a needle or surgery for biopsy. A
CEA blood test, physical exam, X-rays, CT scans, PET scans, ultrasounds, and MRIs may also be used to help establish a definitive diagnosis and determine staging.

Surgery is the most common form of treatment for thyroid cancer that has not spread to other areas of the body.
Radiation therapy,
chemotherapy, and radioactive iodine treatment are also treatment options for thyroid cancer.

The survival rate and prognosis of thyroid cancer depends upon a few factors, including the individual's age, the size of the
tumor, and whether the
cancer has metastasized.